what is the national dish of india?

India is a diverse country with a rich culinary tradition, and it doesn't have a single "national dish" that represents the entire country. Indian cuisine varies greatly from region to region, and each region has its own specialties and popular dishes. Therefore, India is known for a wide array of dishes rather than a single national dish.

However, there are certain dishes that are considered iconic and widely enjoyed throughout the country. Some of these include:

1. Biryani: Biryani is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish cooked with spices, herbs, and typically featuring meat (such as chicken, mutton, or beef) or vegetables. It is popular in various forms across India.
2. Chole Bhature: This dish consists of spicy chickpea curry (chole) served with deep-fried bread (bhature). It's a favorite in North India.
3. Tandoori Chicken: Tandoori chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in a tandoor (clay oven), resulting in a smoky and flavorful dish.
4. Paneer Tikka: A popular vegetarian dish, paneer tikka involves marinating cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in spices and grilling or baking them.
5. Masala Dosa: Originating from South India, masala dosa is a crispy rice crepe filled with a spiced potato filling and served with coconut chutney and sambar.
6. Butter Chicken: This creamy tomato-based curry with tender pieces of chicken is loved by many throughout the country.
7. Rajma Chawal: A North Indian comfort food, rajma chawal is a hearty dish of red kidney beans served with rice.
8. Idli and Sambar: A staple of South Indian cuisine, idli are steamed rice cakes served with a flavorful lentil-based vegetable stew called sambar.
9. Golgappa/Pani Puri: These are popular street snacks consisting of hollow, crispy balls filled with spicy tamarind water, potatoes, and other ingredients.
10. Dhokla: Originating from the state of Gujarat, dhokla is a steamed, spongy snack made from fermented rice and chickpea flour.

It's important to note that India's culinary diversity is vast, and there are countless regional dishes and variations that showcase the country's rich food culture. While there isn't a single national dish, the cuisine of India is celebrated for its vibrant flavors, spices, and regional specialties.